Policy debates surrounding the nature of federalism, representation and intergovernmental relations are as relevant today as they were at the founding of our Republic.
Four dimensions of American federalism and intergovernmental relations—its institutional architecture, governance features, administrative features and fiscal features—are critical to the ongoing success of the American experiment.
| Dimension | Constitutional objectives / principles | Significant Features: |
| Federalism and Intergovernmental Architecture | Forming a more perfect Union | Institutional Features |
| Federal, State and Local Democracy and Representation | Ensuring representation for all Americans | Governance Features |
| Public Sector Performance & Intergovernmental Solutions | Promoting the general welfare | Administrative Features |
| Fiscal Federalism & Intergovernmental Finance | Ensuring taxation with representation | Fiscal Features |